Positioning of radiograph film holders and radiograph films update (SW11-11-12-1)

1. To meet the GDC requirement that all Dentists and DCPs should carry out 5 hours of verifiable continuing professional development in Radiology and Radiation Protection as part of their 5–yearly recertification cycle.

 

 

2. This one-day course combines practical group work in intra-oral radiography techniques with revision of the core subjects recommended for continuing training and education as contained within the NRPB Guidance Notes for General Practitioners (para A3.7)2001.

 

3. Whilst the Guidance Notes make no recommendations that IR(ME)R Operators should study selection criteria, the course is intended to be suitable for both Dentists and Dental Care Professionals – the GDC recommends that radiography and radiation protection should form one of the core subjects for both Dentists and DCPs.

The learning objectives for the course are as follows:

 

          a. Understand what statutory legislation is applicable to Dental Radiology/Radiography (IRR 99, IR(ME)R 2000, IR(ME)Amending Regulations 2006) and what specific  roles and responsibilities are laid down within these  Regulations (with particular regard to Local Rules and Pregnancy).

 

          b. Revise the nature of and specific hazards associated with ionising radiation in order that all members of the         Dental Team understand the need to protect both themselves and their patients.

 

          c. Understand the principles of Radiation Protection and  how these are translated into practice. Have an   overview the implications for radiation detriment to the patient of various radiographic techniques and alternative        imaging modalities.

 

          d. Understand the requirement for a Quality Assurance  programme and the need for (and benefits to be gained  from) auditing image quality at appropriate intervals.

 

          e. Revise positioning techniques for both intraoral and  panoramic radiography (including practical group work).